Paper summary:
This research examines the convergence of Learning Management Systems and Weblogs. It examines the use of hosted blog software and syndication to integrate Weblogs into password-protected LMS environments. We suggest that existing Learning Management Systems inadequately support Blogging, as they do not allow for the natural development of social networks.
Using this framework, a Weblog-based Learning System is proposed to test and evaluate the efficacy of integrating Blogging systems with online learning environments.
The proposed Weblog-based Learning System will create an ‘Institutional Blogosphere’. Each user will have a Blog, and Courses will be presented as collaborative Blogs. As social software, it enables Blogging beyond the institution while providing options for access control. User’s content can be exported for inclusion in e-Portfolios or importing to a personal Blog. Theories of Weblog-based Learning Management Systems have been put forward, although most follow of the model of Administrator – Lecturer – Student. Drawing on the concept of an “Architecture of Participationâ€, the proposed system will focus on facilitation, rather than management, of online learning.
This paper will present a case for a Weblog-based Learning System, exploring the possibilities of an Institutional Blogosphere through a prototype Learning Facilitation System.
Presenter profile: Kate Rodgers
Kate is a Master of Science candidate at Edith Cowan University, Western Australia. Her research interests are in the use of blogs in Online Learning, and how they can be implemented within existing learning environments. Her other research interests include accessible and usable web design, narratives of games, hypertext and wireless networking.
She has diverse experience in educational Information Technology, having previously worked as a trainer, administrator and designer. Her day job is an LMS Systems Administrator, and she runs a small consultancy business providing web design and information management services. Passionate about web standards, she is always finding ways to extend the limits of her CSS/XHTML skills, although her clients sites often come before her blog.
When not working or studying, she spends way to much time tinkering with her Macs and collecting retro toys.